Director, Research Analytics & Strategic Initiatives

Northwestern University; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 140,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Tuition benefits

Retirement savings options

Wellness programs

Paid time off

Job summary

Northwestern University is seeking the Director of Research Analytics and Strategic Initiatives to lead analytics, reporting, and data-driven initiatives across the Office for Research. This role coordinates complex projects, engages with faculty and administrators, and aligns efforts with institutional priorities.

The position requires on-campus presence at least three days per week, with a focus on collaboration, strategy, and stakeholder engagement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred in Business, Public Administration, Higher Education Administration, Data Science, Data Analytics, Project Management, or a related field.
• Seven to ten years of progressively responsible experience in higher education, research administration, analytics, project management, and/or strategic operations.
• Demonstrated experience leading complex, multi-stakeholder projects as assigned including project leadership and execution.
• Experience facilitating meetings, working groups, and collaborative initiatives.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and delivery of research analytics, dashboards, and reports to support Office for Research and institutional decision-making.
• Analyze research performance metrics, funding trends, and other strategic indicators.
• Identify opportunities to leverage data to advance research growth and effectiveness.
• Present findings and recommendations to senior leadership and research stakeholders.
• Direct a team of two in support of team goals: a Senior Research Data Analyst and a Senior Digital Design professional.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Data analysis

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree preferred

Job description

Northwestern University is seeking the Director of Research Analytics and Strategic Initiatives to lead analytics, reporting, and data-driven initiatives across the Office for Research. This role coordinates complex projects, engages with faculty and administrators, and aligns efforts with institutional priorities.

The position requires on-campus presence at least three days per week, with a focus on collaboration, strategy, and stakeholder engagement.